Title: Blue
Author: Rpgirl
Pairing: Nick/Greg
Rating: R
Summary: Greg thinks in the rain, and makes plans with his friends.

***

Greg was sitting on the roof, on the edge, his feet dangling over the sides. His legs were moving back and forth. He was thinking hard about certain things. One was why Nick ignored him all the time now?

The wind blew on him, almost knocking him off balance. It was about to rain, but that’s when Greg’s thought were clearer. He could already feel the raindrops, and tilted his head up.

It was such a change from the heat that always occupied Vegas. It was a nice change, Greg decided. He was so into his thinking he didn’t see Sara and David come over to him.

“Hey Greg.” David said, slightly unnerved by Greg sitting on the edge.

“Hm. Oh hey guys.” Greg said, throwing them a smile.

“What’re you up to?” Sara asked, stopping next to him.

“Thinking. What’re you two doing out here?” Greg asked, as Sara laughed.

“Well it’s raining, and you’re outside. So we thought we’d join you. So if we may ask, what are you thinking about?”

“Just different things. You know like why my boyfriend isn’t talking to me.” Greg said, as David glared at a car going down the street.

“Maybe because he’s a jackass, and he still lets everyone believe that he’s a ladies man.” David supplied, as Sara held in a laugh.

“Oh shut up. He’s not a jackass…he’s just scared.” Greg said, frowning.

“He’s been scared for what…three years. Greg, you should be with a guy that doesn’t care what other people think. Nick…I love him and everything..but he just…doesn’t seem right for you anymore.” Sara said, as Greg shook his head.

“Nick is the right guy Sara…I can take hiding from everyone if it means I can be with him.” Greg said, as David shook his head.

“But that’s just…depressing. If he loves you, he shouldn’t fucking care what anyone else has to say.”

“Yeah well, he just needs time.”

“Three years of time? He’s had time!” David said.

“Well I can wait. Shit, why do you guys care so fucking much?” Greg asked, making his two friends glare.

“We care because you’re sad. You never want to do things with us anymore, and it’s like Nick is your number one priority.” Sara snapped.

“Well sorry I have a fucking life.” Greg snapped back, before slapping a hand on his mouth, “Guys…I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that..i’m just frustrated.”

Sara’s glare softened a little, before she hugged Greg.

“It’s okay Greg. It would be frustrating to be friends with a guy who everyone thinks is straight.” David said.

“It’s not only that! He never wants to talk to me anymore, and when we do it’s a one person conversation.” Greg said, as the rain poured down on them.

“Maybe he’s overworked?” Sara said, as Greg shook his head.

“Have you pressed the issue of telling everyone?” David asked.

“His parents called last week, and I didn’t know. I had just got out of the shower, and I told Nick the bathroom was open. His parents asked who was over there and Nick said, “Oh, it’s just Greg. He spilled some coffee on his shirt, so he had to change.” I mean, at least he told them I was there instead of some chick.” Greg said, “Afterwards I told him he should just tell them, and he told me to go home.”

“That’s it, come on. We’re going out and having fun. I don’t like you when you’re all…depressed and shit. It’s just really fucking depressing.” David said, as Greg laughed.

“We still have an hour left of shift…oh shit. I’m supposed to be with Nick right now in the garage. We have to search the car.” Greg said, getting off the ledge.

“We’ll see you after shift?” Sara asked.

“Promise.” Greg said, as he ran to the door.

Greg was running down the halls towards the garage, dodging everyone in his path so he could be faster. He stopped when he was in there, slipping on the water he’d trailed in. He landed straight on his back, with a dull thud. He opened his mouth as a sharp pain shot up his back.

“Greggo, you okay?” Catherine asked, walking over with Nick.

Nick looked down at Greg, with an amused look on his face.

‘Wipe that look off your face Nick.’ Greg thought, as he got up.

“Yeah Cath, I’m fine. You know me.” Greg said, as Catherine frowned.

“Why are you soaked?” Catherine asked.

“I was on the roof, and it started to rain. You know me and the rain.” Greg said, making Catherine smile.

“Well go dry off, we’ve only found a few things.” Catherine said, as Greg nodded.

He turned to see that he’d fallen on a piece of a pole from the car. Greg glared at it, fighting the urge to kick it. He went to the locker room, seeing Warrick getting off.

“Hey Greg. Are you off?” Warrick asked, fighting a laugh at his soaked appearance.

“No I have to dry off.” Greg said, taking off his shirt.

He opened his locker, pulling out a dry shirt. Warrick gave Greg a low whistle, making the other turn around.

“What?” Greg asked, as Warrick shook his head.

“Did you get into a fight?” Warrick asked.

“No.”

“There’s a big red mark on your back.” Warrick said, as Greg rose a brow.

“Oh! That’s where I fell…I kinda slipped on the water.” Greg said, “Landed on part of a pole.”

Warrick hissed and moved his back a little.

“That sounds painful..I can feel it from over here.” Warrick said, “It looks like it might bruise.”

‘Well that’s what happens when metal meets skin.’ Greg thought sarcastically.

“Yeah, it’s going to be bad going to sleep.”

“You sleep on your back.” Warrick said.

‘And sometimes on my stomach, but only Nick knows that.’ Greg thought.

“Yeah.”

“That sucks man. Well I need to get going.” Warrick said, waving at Greg.

Greg waved back, before drying off his body. He put on some dry clothes, before walking back to the garage.

By the time he’d gotten there, Catherine was laughing with Nick.

“Hey Greg, can you take these to trace?” Nick asked, holding out two bags.

“Sure, anything else?” Greg asked, as Catherine handed him another bag.

“That goes to DNA.” Catherine said, “Thanks.”

Greg nodded before walking out of the garage. He stopped at the DNA lab first, giving the bag to Mia.

They said a few things to eachother before Greg went to the Trace lab. He smiled as he saw David.

“Miss me?” Greg asked, putting the two bags down.

“Always.” David said sarcastically, “What are you doing here? I thought you had to be at the garage.”

“I got bitch detail.” Greg said, as David laughed.

“Ah, that sucks. Don’t you always get stuck with it?”

“Giving and picking it up. Oh the joys of being everyone’s bitch.” Greg said, as he held his two hands together with a big sarcastic grin.

David laughed at the sight.

“You need to stop doing that, it’s kinda scary.” David said, as Greg shrugged.

“You’re jealous because I’m sexier than you.” Greg said, as both laughed.

“You’d better get going before Grissom comes in and goes all, ‘Don’t you have a case,’ on you.” David said, as Greg shook his head.

“Alright. See you after shift.” Greg said, as he left.

By the time he got back to the garage, the two were done.

”G, what took so long?” Nick asked, as Greg laughed sheepishly.

“David wasn’t in the trace lab, so I had to find him.” Greg said.

“You could’ve left it there.” Nick said.

‘You could’ve left being a jerk at the door.’ Greg thought, laughing mentally.

Greg just smiled back at Nick.

“I know, but I told him to get it done as quick as possible.” Greg lied, making Catherine smile.

“Thanks Greg.” Catherine said, as Greg nodded.

“No problem. Sorry I wasn’t much help.” Greg said, as Catherine shook her head.

“If you did that, it will help us.” Catherine said, leaving the garage.

Greg grinned widely at Nick, who rolled his eyes.

“So G, doing anything tonight?” Nick asked casually.

“Yeah. David and Sara want to do something with me after shift. I haven’t really been spending a lot of time with them you know.” Greg said, as Nick’s eyes narrowed a little.

“Oh, well I have stuff to do tonight to.” Nick lied, as Greg frowned.

“Then why’d you ask?”

“Just wanted to see if you had something to do to keep you entertained.” Nick said, brushing past Greg.

Greg grit his teeth, and resisted the urge to pull his hair out by the roots. He followed Nick to the locker room, where they were getting ready to leave.

“I’ll see you guys tomorrow.” Catherine said, “I’d stick around longer but I promised Lindsey I’d take her to see a movie.”

“That’s okay. Bye Catherine.” Nick said, waving.

“Bye Cath.” Greg said, getting his things out of his locker.

“Later.” Catherine said, leaving the room.

“Hey Greg! You ready?” Sara asked, hanging on the door frame.

“In a second.” Greg said, looking at Nick, “So what are you doing?”

“Watching a football game.” Nick said, unenthusiastically.

“Oh. Well…I’ll..uh..see you later.” Greg said, as Nick nodded.

“Oh Greggo, we need to talk later.” Nick said, making Greg stop.

‘Talk…’ Greg thought, ‘Great, I always love fucking talks.’

“Okay, are you going to call me or what?”

“Actually come over when you’re done with Sara and David.” Nick said, as Greg nodded.

“Alright. I’ll see you then.” Greg said, leaving.

Sara threw a glare at Nick before walking after Greg.

***

Greg walked with Sara and David into Sara’s apartment.

“What do you think he wants to talk about?” David asked.

‘Breaking up, fucking eachother, breaking up, bugging him about coming out, did I mention breaking up?’ Greg thought.

“I don’t know.” Greg said outloud.

“Are you nervous?” Sara asked.

‘No, I’m peachy with a hint of keen. OF COURSE I AM!’ Greg thought.

“A little bit.” Greg said.

“Do you think he’s mad at you?”

“Pissed, livid, angry, furious, enraged, all synonyms, all probably true.” Greg thought, smirking inwardly.

“I don’t know. I don’t know what he wants to talk about.” Greg said.

“Well that sucks. Do you think you should go and get it over with? Then come back over here?” David asked.

‘I would, because it might be nothing. Then again he might want to screw me, and we’ll pass out. Fucking choices.’ Greg thought.

“Should I?” Greg asked.

“I think you should. I agree with David, you need to get it over with.” Sara said.

‘I think you guys are thinking way to much about this.’ Greg thought.

“I’ll be back in an hour then.” Greg said, as they nodded.

“See you in an hour then.” Sara said, as Greg left.

****
Greg knocked on Nick’s apartment door, a new wave of nervousness crashing on him.

“Hey Greg…I didn’t think you were going to be here until later.” Nick said, letting the other in.

“I wanted to talk to you before I had any fun.” Greg said.

‘Even though I know what you’re going to say. There’s a part of me that hopes I’m wrong though. Don’t you know how much I love you Nick?’ Greg thought.

“Do you want something to drink?” Nick asked.

‘I’d rather you get straight to the talk jackass.’ Greg thought.

“Nah, I’m fine.” Greg told him, as Nick sat on the coffee table.

“Do you want to just get straight to the talk?” Nick said.

‘Now you’re making me feel like a kid. I’m not a fucking kid Nick.’ Greg thought.

“Yeah, that’d be fine.” Greg said, sitting on the couch.

“Well Greg…here’s the thing. I want to be blunt..but I don’t want to sound mean.”

‘Either way, you’re going to break my heart.’ Greg thought.

“Let me guess…you want to break up with me?” Greg said, as Nick’s eyes widened.

“How…did you know?” Nick asked.

‘You’ve avoided me for a week, and then say we need to talk. How did I not know?’

“I guessed. You know how good of a guesser I am.” Greg said, his voice almost breaking at the end.

Nick looked guilty for a second.

“One question Nick.” Greg said.

“What?”

“Why?” Greg asked.

Nick looked down.

“My..parents expect me to give them a lot of grandchildren. I can’t do that if I’m with you.” Nick said.

Greg nodded.

“I’d figured as much.” Greg said, standing up.

“We can still be friends.” Nick said.

‘I think I’d rather go jump infront of a car. Oh god…I asked for this…I was to persistent.’ Greg thought, almost crying.

“Yeah..that’s…cool.” Greg said slowly, “I need to go though Nick…you know..friends waiting.”

Nick nodded, letting Greg leave the apartment. When Greg got to his car, he put his head on the wheel.

‘You will not cry…don’t cry Greg…it’ll all be fine…you can forget about him…it’s going to be fine…’ Greg thought, knowing it wasn’t working.

‘Shit! Why am I always so stupid…’ Greg’s thoughts all tumbled in together.

He somehow got back to his apartment, he didn’t know how…but he had. He got in, and let the tears flow down his face.

He landed face first on the couch, trying to stop them. The phone rang, but he ignored it. He rolled over and called his boss.

“Grissom.”

“Hey Griss…I don’t think I’m going to be able to come in for a while…I think I’m sick.” Greg said, already taking out a notebook.

“Is it serious?” Grissom asked.

“I’ve been puking all night.” Greg lied.

“You can have a few days off, but only a few.” Grissom said.

“Thanks Griss.” Greg said, both hanging up.

Greg started writing down sentences, somehow forming the lines together to make a song. He read it once over, and threw it across the room.

‘Stupid song, stupid Nick, stupid Greg, stupid jerks.’ Greg thought, as his phone rang again.

He picked it up.

“Unless this is Death saying that I’ve won another go at a love life, I don’t give a shit.” Greg said.

“This is Death then.” Sara’s voice came through.

“Oh…hey Sara.” Greg said.

“Why didn’t you come back over?”

“Oh shit..I forgot…sorry.” Greg said, hearing the other sigh.

“What happened?”

“Nick broke up with me.” Greg said simply.

“That jackass.” Sara hissed, making Greg laugh.

“It’s fine.” Greg said, “I expected it…I’ll be fine.”

He could hear David in the background talking about murdering Nick

“Sara, tell David to calm down. He just wants to make his family happy…I can understand that.” Greg said.

“Well we don’t.” Sara said.

“Look I’m going to get some sleep. I’m tired.” Greg told her.

“I’ll see you at work tomorrow.” Sara said.

“I’m not going to be in for a few days…I told Griss I was sick.” Greg said.

“See! You aren’t fine. You’re taking days off.” Sara almost yelled.

“I just…need some time to think. You know have me time.” Greg said, as he heard the woman on the other end growl.

“I’m going to rip his fucking ba--”

“SARA! You won’t do anything!” Greg yelled, “It’s my fault. I pushed the issue of him coming out. I deserved to get dumped.”

“No one deserves to get dumped. He’s just to chicken shit to tell anyone how he really feels.” Sara said.

“I’ll get over it. Besides, I’m going to write a few songs for the band…I think this break up is inspiring me in some twisted fucked up way.” Greg said.

“…Can we come over after work?” Sara asked.

“I don’t know. Probably.” Greg said, as Sara sighed.

“We’ll see you later Greg.” Sara said, sounding upset.

They both hung up after saying their good byes. Greg laid his head on a pillow, smelling it. It smelled like Nick, which pissed Greg off. He threw the pillow in a corner, along with the other.

He went into a mad fit, little things reminding him of Nick. He threw his stuff around, destroying plants that Nick had given him. Twenty minutes later his apartment looked like a tornado had gone through.

‘That’s one way to get your frustration out. Destroy your apartment. SMOOTH.’ Greg thought, sitting on the floor.

***

Greg woke up to hear a knock on the door. He answered it, letting Sara and David in.

“Did someone try to rob you?” David asked, taking in the place.

“No…I did it.” Greg said slowly, going over to the couch.

Sara and David shared a look going over to Greg. They sat on either side of him, looking at him with sad eyes.

“So was Nick there today?” Greg asked, as both of his friends looked away.

“Yeah.” Sara said.

“It’s okay. I mean…I’ll be okay. So what happened?” Greg asked, “Because you guys look guilty.”

“Not so much guilty as sad and mad.” David said, his tone rising.

“Why? What happened?” Greg asked, his voice still low.

“Well…there was a new receptionist today…and Nick kind of started hitting on her…asked her out on a date even.” Sara said, as Greg took in a shuddering breath.

“We were so mad Greg. Sara actually got into his face and screamed. Grissom and the team didn’t know why she was so mad. Then she stormed off after she smacked him.” David said.

“I told you guys to leave him alone. Why didn’t you leave him alone!” Greg asked, as his voice cracked.

Sara pulled Greg into a hug.

“Because we got pissed off that he could treat you so horridly, and no one besides us knew better.” David explained.

“He…asked where you were today though.” Sara said, as Greg lifted his head.

“He did?” Greg asked, slightly hopeful.

“Yeah…it was before the fight…we were getting handed assignments, and he asked, “Where’s Greggo? He’s late isn’t he.” We told him you got the flu from some jackass.” Sara said, as Greg put his head back down.

“I don’t understand this! I really don’t. I knew it was coming…shouldn’t that have stopped the pain?” Greg asked, as Sara and David looked at him.

“Greg, just because you expected it…doesn’t make it hurt any less.” David told him.

“It actually makes it hurt more. Because you knew it was coming, and you didn’t want to be right.” Sara put in.

“I dropped him coming out! I just wanted to be with him! I let myself not let anyone have the knowledge that we were together! I did everything I thought was right, so we could stay together.” Greg rambled, his voice breaking halfway through.

Sara hugged him tighter.

“It’s not your fault. It’s not your fault Greg. It’s his for being an insensitive ass.” Sara told him.

“It is my fault. I pushed him away…I seem to push everyone away…oh God I hate this feeling.” Greg cried out.

Sara would say Greg was overreacting, but she knew this was Greg’s first relationship. Sure he hit on everyone at the lab, but Nick was his first anything. She wanted to kill Nick for making Greg hurt this much.

“Greg, it’s going to be okay. It’ll get better. I promise.” David said, as Greg shook his head.

Sara and David’s heart wrenched when Greg started sobbing.

“Greg, it’s okay.” Sara said, petting his head.

“I hate crying.” Greg said, wiping them away. They were only replaced by more.

“Greg, you can’t be strong all the time. That’s why you have friends. We’ll never turn our back on you.” David told him, feeling depressed now.

Greg nodded his head, quieting down.

“David…you remember how our band had to cancel a few weeks ago, because we had to work?” Greg asked.

“Yeah.”

“I think we should throw another concert…to…say we’re sorry.” Greg said.

“Do you think you’re up for one?” David asked.

“Not at this very moment…but give…me like…two weeks…and I’ll have some new songs.” Greg said, before sitting up.

“Okay.”

“We’ll get the team to come.” Greg said, making them smile.

“See Greg, you’ll bounce back from this.” Sara said.

“I hope I do.” Greg said.

“Well…do you want us to stay? Or leave? What?” Sara asked.

“I think you guys should stay for awhile…we can watch a movie.” Greg said, “Not a romance though.”

The other two laughed before nodding.

Greg would get over Nick, and all would be fine. Besides the team was wondering why David and Sara wouldn’t talk to Nick. Especially since David put Nick’s stuff at the bottom of his pile, even though he was working with Grissom.

Now began the battle of Greg’s friends vs. Nick’s. Who would come out on top? No one knew really.

***

Greg walked into work a few days later, looking like he’d jumped out of a goth movie. He was wearing heavy eyeliner, and his outfit was all black. He was also wearing big black boots, that looked like they would be able to give someone a concussion if he hit them. Greg’s hair was spikier than usual, and he had a fiery air about him. He had a smirk on his face, and looked slightly evil. The lab tech’s gave him a look that said, ‘He’s finally lost it.’ Greg had his IPod on, blaring Nymphetamine Fix, by Cradle of Filth.

Greg strutted up to Sara and David, who’s mouths had dropped at their friend.

“What the hell happened to you?” Sara asked.

“This is what happens when Greg’s in a creative mood.” David said, as Greg laughed.

“This is what happens when Greg’s in a creative mood, and has been listening to the same three songs all day.” Greg said, as David tilted his head.

“Which songs?”

“Nymphetamine Fix, I am Women, and The Workout.” Greg said, as David laughed.

“You’ve mixed Cradle of Filth, with Ayumi Hamasaki, and Utada Hikaru. Only you could do that.” David said, as Sara looked confused.

“Aren’t Ayumi and Utada...Japanese singers?” Sara asked.

“Yep. So do you think I’ll get yelled at for my outfit?” Greg asked.

“I don’t know why? I mean you only look like Death in human form.” Sara teased, as Greg smirked.

“I think I’ll go up behind Nick and say I’m here to collect his soul.” Greg said, as David laughed.

“I think everyone will officially label you, ‘Goth’ after that.”

“I’m my own fucking label David.” Greg snapped, as Catherine and Nick walked by.

“Hey Greg, we have a…what the hell happened to you?” Catherine asked, as Nick stopped too.

“What can I say? I guess the Devil jumped into me.” Greg said, as David shook his head.

“You look like someone killed your puppy.” Catherine said.

“Doesn’t he look like Death in human form?” Sara asked.

“In a creepy way he does? What’d you do to your hair? It looks like it could be used as a weapon.” Catherine asked, touching one of the spikes.

“Mousse, gel, and hairspray. Triple threat, my hair wins.” Greg said, “I usually just use gel. Why do you think I look sexier?”

“I’m not at liberty to discuss that.” Catherine said, smiling.

“I think it makes you look sexier.” Sara said, as David nodded.

“Yeah, make the person who dumped you feel bad about it.” David said, as Nick glared.

“Greg, can I talk to you.” Nick asked, through his teeth.

“Why would you want to talk to me? Hiding something Nicky?” Greg asked, his eyes moving with his mouth in a smirk, which could only be described as evil.

“I have nothing to hide from anyone.” Nick hissed.

“I’d beg to differ.” Greg hissed back, his tone changing to a slightly demented one.

Catherine looked at them confused. Greg sounded like the bad guy in a kid’s show.

“Well no one cares about what you say.” Nick said, “So can we please talk.”

“After the way you just talked to me, you can kiss my ass Stokes.” Greg said, as Sara and David shared a secret high-five.

“Greg, can we please talk.” Nick asked nicely.

“I’d usually say, ‘Since you asked so nicely’, but since I’m feeling like an asshole today, I’m going to say…no.” Greg said, as he walked off.

“Damn! Burn!” David said, chasing after Greg.

“Well…damn. Hot shit man!” Sara said, running after her two friends.

“What’s going on between you and Greg?” Catherine asked.

“He’s just being an asshole.” Nick growled, walking after the trio.

Greg smirked at his friends, who were laughing hysterically.

“That was awesome…and your voice went from. Hi, I’m Greg Sanders! To If you fuck with me, I’ll murder you.” Sara said, “How’d you change your tone like that, I didn’t even recognize your voice.”

“I’ve been changing for work the past couple of days. That’s why you guys couldn’t come over. So do you like the new look?” Greg asked, his tone changing again.

“I LOVE IT!” Sara said, “You seem so evil, and nothing like the Greg people would walk over.”

“I miss your happy go luckyness.” David said, as Greg shook his head.

“Don’t worry, I’m going to make Nick feel like an ass, then I’m going to revert back.” Greg said.

“So do you g---he just doesn’t give up does he?” Sara asked, as Nick walked in.

“You and me need to talk NOW.” Nick demanded.

“And I said, no. Which in any country means, that I don’t want to.” Greg said, making Nick glare heatedly.

“And I say, I’m going to talk to you one way or another.”

“Oooo talk rape. Do you think I can press charges for that?” Greg asked, voice changing to fill the words with malice.

“Rape is rape in my book.” Sara said, as Nick rolled his eyes.

“And stop talking like that! You sound like you’re from a show.” Nick said, “And that outfit. Is that supposed to be you mourning?”

“It’s supposed to show that you have no control over me you jackass.” Greg said, making Nick laugh.

“Please Greg, the reason you’re doing it is because you want me to come back to you.” Nick said, as Greg’s mask almost dropped.

‘How’d he know that? He couldn’t of heard you..’

“You now Nick, not everything in this fucking world revolves around you.” Greg said, making Nick snort.

“I know that very well. But it’s amazing how all the bad things keep happening to me.”

“That’s only because you are someone who psychotic people with no brain could like.” Greg hissed, making Nick take a step back.

“W-What?”

“Someone with half a brain couldn’t like you. What’s to like? You’re just a stupid Texan frat boy from down south.” Greg hissed, as Nick glared.

“Then you must have no brain, because we fucked eachother for about three years.”

“Yes but see here’s the thing Nicky. My family knows I’m bi, they accepted that fact long ago. Now see, your family…doesn’t know. Fuck with me, and I’ll tell them. Your mother loves me like a son anyways, and knows I wouldn’t lie.” Greg hissed at him, making Nick loose his ground.

“You wouldn’t fucking dare. Then I’ll tell everyone here you’re bi.” Nick countered.

“The only people’s opinions I care about are the teams. And they wouldn’t care, I know they aren’t homophobic. I used to care about your opinion, love. But now…I don’t really give a damn.” Greg said.

‘Except I do, and I don’t want you to see how weak I am without you.’ Greg thought.

“….We have a meeting to get to.” Nick said, as Greg walked over to him.

“Would you like to sit together, or would that clue everyone in that you like guys?” Greg whispered in his ear, making Nick shiver.

“I’d rather not.” Nick said.

“Then they’ll know something’s up. You’re fucked either way.” Greg hissed, kissing Nick’s pressure point.

“No..i’m not.” Nick said, as Greg smirked against his skin.

“Fine then, I guess I’ll see you whenever.” Greg said, brushing past him.

Sara and David were shocked by the exchange.

“I’ve got work to do.” David said, running out.

“We’ve got that meeting.” Sara said, following David.

Greg walked into the meeting, Warrick and Grissom’s eyes on him the whole time.

“Damn Greg.” Warrick said, whistling low.

Greg sat down in a corner, Sara coming in a few minutes later, sitting next to him.

Nick walked in five minutes later with Catherine, Nick looked a little flustered and sat next to Warrick.

“Why aren’t you sitting next to Greg?” Warrick asked.

“I don’t want to, you’re my friend too.” Nick said, as Warrick gave him a confused look.

“Right, now that everyone’s here, we can start. There’s two cases tonight.” Grissom started, “So it’s going to be three with three.”

The team nodded.

“Sara, Greg, and Nick you’re working a B&E over on Malcolm Street.” Grissom started.

“Griss, do I have to work with them?” Nick asked.

“Yes.” Grissom said, “Warrick and Catherine you’re with me. We have a DB over at Lake Mead.”

“So I need to go get my bathing suit on.” Warrick said, as Grissom shook his head.

Grissom, Warrick, and Catherine left the room after a minute to go to the crime scene.

“This isn’t fucking fair!” Nick yelled, slamming his hands on the table.

“You’re acting like I want to work a case with you.” Greg glared.

“This isn’t funny Greg. I’d rather work with Ecklie than you.” Nick yelled, as Greg flinched.

“Fuck you Nick.” Greg said, voice breaking for the first time that night.

“You’d like that wouldn’t you.” Nick hissed.

Greg stood up so fast that his chair fell over.

“Y—I..” Greg couldn’t even put a sentence together.

He’d been so calm and collected.

“I guess the new Greg does have feelings. Isn’t that pathetic.” Nick said, feeling guilty.

Greg stormed out of the room, muttering he’d see them at the crime scene.

Sara watched Greg’s back before turning to Nick.

“What the FUCK is your problem?” Sara asked, as Nick glared.

“It’s none of your business.”

“He’s my friend, which makes it my business.” Sara said, as Nick stormed out after Greg.

“This is why I hate men.” Sara yelled after him, before sighing.

‘I would get to work with the two people who just broke up.’ Sara thought, ‘At least I can comfort Greg if Nick says something bitchy.’

***

Greg walked to his car, waiting for the other two. Nick pushed past Greg, making him almost fall down.

“Watch it, before you lose it Stokes.” Greg hissed at him, sounding slightly on the verge of demonic.

Sara took a step back, slightly scared at the new change.

“How about you don’t get in my way Greggo.” Nick said, saying the nickname sarcastically.

Greg snarled at him, making Nick jump and take a step back.

“How about you try not to be a jackass. I promise you one thing, love. You’ll lose miserably.” Greg said, walking past him.

Nick stood up straighter, Greg went behind him.

“You know what? I don’t know what I saw in you. You treated me like shit on a daily basis. You ignored me, and then when we fucked each other’s brains out you didn’t even moan my name out. That’s not fair Nicky.” Greg hissed, “Shouldn’t it work both ways?”

Nick shivered involuntarily, as Sara looked like she was looking elsewhere.

“Why don’t you fuck off.”

“How about you try this one on for size Nick. You are the biggest coward of a man I have EVER had the courtesy of meeting in my life. You are such a wimp that it hurts to talk to you sometimes.” Greg growled, his tone changing on each word, “I was supposed to be the girl in the relationship, as you said one time. Guess what, I told my family. You didn’t. So I guess that means I wore the pants. Guess you aren’t tough shit anymore.”

Sara’s mouth dropped. Greg was going a bit far, and this was a tad bit cruel even for her taste.

Nick pushed Greg up against the car, his fist was up, and all Greg did was start laughing.

“What are you going to do Nick? Are you going to punch me? Please tell me what you are going to do to the little queer. Please! I’d love to know. Is it going to hurt as much as you breaking my heart? That hurt like a bitch you know. Felt like my heart was being ripped right out of my body.” Greg said, as Nick took a step back.

“G..”

“You know what hurts a little bit more Nick. I’m still in love with you. I hate myself for it. I really do hate that feeling. Who needs love anyways right? It’s just an emotion that ends up getting you hurt.” Greg snarled.

Nick took another step back.

“So guess what? You’ve just signed your ‘death’ warrant.” Greg said, taking the two steps it would take to get in Nick’s face.

“How did I sign my death warrant?” Nick asked, their noses touching.

“Because now that I have nothing to hold me down to earth, your life is going to be a bigger hell than that fucking box.” Greg said, “I know what makes you tick, I know your weaknesses. That’s the problem when you piss someone off to the point of insanity.”

“What do you mean I hold you down to earth?” Nick asked.

“OH! You mean the great, perfect, Nick Stokes doesn’t know. Where’s a camera when I need one. If you had been paying ANY attention in the past few weeks you’d know that Papa Olaf had died.” Greg snapped, “But then again that shouldn’t surprise me, you didn’t really care about me. Did you Nick? I mean if you did you’d noticed that I’ve been hurting.”

Nick pushed Greg back into the car. Greg could already feel a bruise forming.

“Boo hoo, your grandfather died. Give me a break.” Nick yelled, as Greg’s eyes narrowed.

“Another thing you might want to know, fucker. Papa Olaf raised me, and guess what.”

“If I have to guess another thing, I think I’m going to guess how I’m going to end up killing you.” Nick hissed, as Greg laughed.

“Brilliant comeback fuckwad.” Greg said, as Sara took a few steps back.

“You’re the one calling me fucker and fuckwad. Who’s better?” Nick asked, making Greg stay on the car.

“I’m still the better one. Want to know why? I don’t lie to other people about my sexuality. I’m very open about it. Unlike you, who doesn’t know honesty if it bit you in the ass. Oh wait I’m sorry, you like to get bit on the cock.” Greg said, putting a finger to his chin, his elbow going into his free hand, “I almost forgot about your personal kinks.”

Nick glared at him.

“You can go to hell.” Nick said.

“You’re going with me, love. Isn’t it your God who says if you lay with another man you’re damned to hell?” Greg asked, “Oh yes it is.”

Nick winced.

“Here’s the difference, I can beg forgiveness, you can’t. It’s not your religion.”

“You’re right. Sadly, but you are.” Greg said, “But see here’s another great thing Nicky. I believe in reincarnation.”

Nick rolled his eyes.

“Like you’ve been a good person.”

“I had to deal with you for a while. Let you fulfill your little fantasy.” Greg said, making Nick’s eyes widen.

Nick was standing over him, as Greg bit his earlobe. Nick shuddered, but forced Greg to look at him.

“That’s bullshit. If I remember hearing it correctly you were a virgin waiting for me to take you.” Nick hissed, as Greg glared pushing Nick off him.

“You just need to stay away from me.” Greg hissed, his tone coming back full force.

“Sorry, love. We have a case together.” Nick said, smirking.

Greg smirked back, making Nick frown.

“You’re right, we do have a case. But since it’s only five minutes away we can fight as long as necessary.” Greg said, flipping their positions.

Nick was leaning on the car, with Greg on top of him.

“Get off me.” Nick said.

“How about a compromise Nick.” Greg said, “I let you keep your perfect life if you do one thing for me.”

Nick stopped struggling and looked at Greg.

“What do you want?” Nick asked.

“I want my heart back. I don’t care how I get back, I just want it.” Greg said, backing away from him.

Nick looked like he’d been smacked by that statement.

“If you just give me my heart, then I can leave and be out of your hair.” Greg whispered, making Sara turn around.

He crumbled down to his knees, his head was down, and he was hugging himself.

“Greg…I can’t do that.” Nick said, as Greg looked up at him. His eyes held a hate so spiteful, with malice and cruelty. They were nothing like the eyes Nick fell in love with.

“Why? I want it back. You have it, so you can give it back.” Greg hissed out.

“It’s not mine to give back. It’s all you.” Nick said, as Greg shook his head.

“No…I HATE YOU!” Greg screamed.

Grissom, Warrick, and Catherine were walking out and stopped when they heard the screaming.

“I hate you so much….but I love you….I want you out of my head…I just need you out of me…I…oh god….” Greg was speaking in broken sentences, not noticing the CSI’s coming over.

“G, look the team is coming over. Maybe we can talk about this later.” Nick said, putting a hand on Greg’s shoulder.

“DON’T TOUCH ME!” Greg screamed, pushing himself against David’s car.

Sara ran to the team to try and subdue them.

“Don’t touch me like there’s some sort of hope for us…don’t touch me like you love me.” Greg said, “I…need to go…coming back today was such a mistake…I can’t believe I did this…”

Nick was slightly worried for Greg’s sanity right now. How could he go from right hand man of Lucifer, to this in the time space of ten minutes. He also noticed that Greg was shivering, showing that he was crying.

“I…tried everything I could to make things work…I tried to hard to make sure we could be together…I guess I didn’t try hard enough…I would usually just ramble to Papa Olaf….but…” Greg looked up, Nick felt a shudder pass through him. Greg’s eyeliner was running, giving Greg a slightly more evil look.

“G…” Nick said, as Greg screamed again.

“Will you stop with that! Please!” Greg yelled, getting up.

Nick followed his example.

“I can’ t deal with all of this by myself…but I have to…I don’t have you anymore…” Greg said, noticing the rest of the team coming over.

“Greg, w--”

“So what’s the excuse for me yelling?” Greg asked Nick, who shrugged.

“Greg, Nick? What’s going on here? We heard yelling.” Grissom said, looking at them.

Warrick and Catherine were glancing at them too.

“Grissom, I have to go home.” Greg said, as Grissom shook his head.

“You just got back.”

“It’s personal business now.” Greg said, as Grissom looked at him.

“What happened?” Grissom asked.

“M-My Papa Olaf died sir, I don’t think it’s good if I work while thinking about it.” Greg said, as Grissom nodded.

“I don’t think it is either. When’s the funeral?”

“Friday.” Greg said truthfully, the funeral was going to be held in California.

“Why don’t you take a week off.” Grissom said, slightly sad.

“Thanks Griss. Excuse me.” Greg said, as Grissom looked at Sara.

“Sara, make sure he’s okay…Nick can work the B&E with Warrick.” Grissom said, as Sara smiled.

“Thanks Grissom.” She said, taking off after her friend.

Sara caught up with Greg just to see him collapse on the other side of the parking lot.

“Greg, why didn’t you tell us about Papa Olaf?” Sara asked.

“To much on my mind…and then this thing with Nick.” Greg said, as Sara smiled.

“Well let me tell you Greg, you gave better than what he gave you.” Sara said, as Greg looked down.

“And I sort of hate myself for it.” Greg said.

Sara didn’t say anything, but helped Greg into the car.

***

When Greg got to his apartment, he didn’t invite Sara in, he just said good bye. Sara was seriously thinking about murdering Nick.

Greg walked into it, shutting the door behind him. Shut and slam were the same thing right? Greg stepped over some broken glass, and went into the kitchen. He got some water before setting off to his room.

He set the glass down, and then made his way to the bathroom. He washed his face off, and decided to leave his hair along. He didn’t care if it was spiky, flat, or permed at the minute. Greg saw his notebook on the ground when he walked back into his bedroom. Picking it up, he turned to the song he wrote. One set of lyrics catching his attention immediately.

‘I have never been
So insulted in all my life
I could swallow the seas
To wash down all this pride
First you run like a fool
Just to be at my side
And now you run like a fool
But you just run to hide
And I can't abide’*

Greg laughed loudly, turning it to the next page. He told David to get the band together, he also said he’d be ready. It was going to be one hell of a show, especially if he got Nick to be there.

He was pouring all of his feelings that had been bottled up in the past few weeks out. One song seemed like it’d be difficult to sing. He made a little line on top of each page to keep the beat steady with his voice.

He grabbed the remote from the bedside table, and turned on his stereo. He turned up the volume letting Angra pour out of it. The first song was Nova Era, his favorite song they’d written. The sound of the beginning made it sound like it was about to be classical, when it got to the singer’s voice however it made the band sound like an eighties hair band.

He sang the lyrics, not going to the high notes like the singer, Eduardo Falaschi. He nodded his head to the beat. He hadn’t heard Angra in a while, and it was sort of rejuvenating to hear his favorite band.

He continued to write, letting the lyrics sooth him, so he wouldn’t go psycho again and destroy another part of his apartment.

His phone started ringing, as he looked at it. He saw that the number was Nick’s and scoffed.

“Fuck you Mr. Stokes, with hard, pointy, rusty, serrated objects.” Greg said, smirking at the phone.

Greg made the CD change, laughing when the ABC’s of Kinky Sex started up. He shook his head, changing the CD again. He was satisfied when he heard Praise by Sevendust come through. That was the thing with Greg, he could listen to anything. Jpop, metal, rock, a little rap, and maybe if he was feeling daring some pop. He stayed away from country like it was the devil itself.

He flinched as a memory made it’s way into his head. When Nick tried to put a country CD in his CD player he almost lost it. They had an argument which ended in Greg leaving his own apartment. He couldn’t stand country, not even the kind that sounded popish.

He looked at his phone again as it started to ring.

“I guess he wants the message in person huh?” Greg said, answering it.

“Look, if you don’t stop calling you’re going to be on the wrong end of a pointed, rusted, machete.” Greg said into the phone.

“Greg?” Warrick’s voice came through.

“Oh…sorry Warrick. I’ve been getting prank phone calls.” Greg lied.

“Really? I was under the impression you were avoiding Nick’s calls.” Warrick said, making Greg wince.

“Why would you think that?” Greg asked.

“He just tried to call you oh about…ten times. So he asked me to call, I do, and you pick up.” Warrick said.

“I was in the shower.” Greg said.

“First prank phone calls, now the shower. What’s the next lie?” Warrick asked.

Greg took the phone away from his face, and gave it a look. Who the hell did Warrick think he was?

“Look Warrick, I don’t know why Nick wants to talk to me, I’m sure it’s an important reason.” Greg said.

“I don’t know, but it’s kind of odd that you won’t answer his calls.”

Greg remained silent.

“We’re sorry you lost your grandfather, but that doesn’t make it okay to avoid someone.” Warrick said, as Greg let out a vicious laugh.

“There are other reasons why I’m avoiding Nick ‘I’m so fucking perfect’ Stokes.” Greg said, “And Papa Olaf…you don’t need to worry about that. I’m going to be fine.”

“What the hell is up with you today Greg? I heard about both arguments you had with Nick at work, then the one outside.” Warrick said, “How you started them. Just because you’re in a pissy mood doesn’t mean it’s okay to start fights.”

Greg’s mouth dropped down at that. Greg’s teeth grit together as he fought back the comment that was about to make its way out.

“Listen to this Warrick, I didn’t start any fight, that was all Nick. Then again if Nick did start a fight, then that’d mean you’d have to question more things about him. You know Nick’s not fucking perfect, why you people think he is I’ll never understand.”

“We never said he was perfect, but he hasn’t lied to us before.”

“Neither have I!” Greg exclaimed.

“Why would he lie about that Greg?”

“To save his own ass from the destruction that I can oh so kindly offer him.” Greg said, in the same voice he used to freak Nick out.

“What the fuck are you on?” Warrick asked, “Seriously? Are you on crack?”

“No I’m not. I’m just dealing with a shitload of emotions over here. You wouldn’t have even known Papa Olaf was dead if I hadn’t of told Grissom. Besides Sara and David, the only people that listen to me are probably…hmm…let’s think….Jacqui…Mia…and that’s about it. So you and Mr. Stick-up-his-ass can cut the holier-than-thou act, because I’m not putting up with it anymore.”

Warrick was silent.

“I’m not a robot, a rat, or an experiment. I’m a person, the same as you, with emotions. I know it’s a big concept to think about someone besides Nick, Catherine, Grissom, and Sara…and maybe Tina. Guess what? The next time Nick or you decide it’d be okay for you to step all over me, then you need to think again.” Greg said, the tone going down on each word, until his voice was a whispering snarl.

Warrick was still silent throughout the whole thing.

“So if you’re a QUITE THROUGH with lecturing me, you can say whatever is on your mind.” Greg finished.

“Greg…I put you on speaker phone.” Warrick said, “So..Griss…Cath..Nick…and a few others heard it.”

Greg started laughing.

“When did you put me on speaker phone?” Greg asked, slightly pissed.

“At the beginning of the conversation.”

“How fucking polite of you to not even tell me.” Greg said, in a vicious sweet voice.

“Greg…I’m sorry…we..”

“Don’t apologize. I know you aren’t. You wouldn’t have done it if you were sorry. I don’t care what half baked excuse you can come up with.” Greg screamed.

“Greg? This is Grissom.”

“Oh God, now what? Am I in trouble?” Greg asked, in a bored tone.

“We’re sorry we didn’t tell you…” Grissom said.

“I SAID NOT TO APOLOGIZE!” Greg yelled, knowing everyone in the first few labs would hear it.

“But…we are.” Catherine said.

“I can’t believe you people. I really can’t. What’s wrong with you?” Greg asked, taking a deep breath.

“G, we..” Nick’s voice.

“You don’t even need to start talking Stokes. You fucking liar! Lying about everything so nothing will hurt your rep. Not caring about whoever gets hurt along the way.”

He could hear them talking.

“Nick, what’s he talking about?” Catherine asked.

“I have no clue.”

Greg started laughing again.

“Of course he won’t admit it! Remind me when I get back, if I still have a job, to let you guys listen to (s)AINT by Marilyn Manson. I’ve decided it’s Nick’s song.” Greg said.

“Of course you still have a job. You’re just over emotional right now.” Grissom said.

“Over emotional? OVER EMOTIONAL! I’ll show you over e-fucking-motional. You want to know over emotional Grissom. Do you? Over emotional is when you’ve had a bad break up, one of your close relatives die, and then have a concert to prepare for. Even though you’re not sure you can pull off the show, and are scared shitless about it. That’s over emotional…oh wait…I guess that fits me to a T, huh.” Greg said, starting to laugh again.

“I think I’m with Warrick. What are you on Greg?” Catherine asked.

“He’s just over emotional Catherine. It’s understandable.”

“Over emotional people don’t act demon’s have possessed them.”

“Demon? DEMONS! The only radamned demon I’ve seen is in Nick Stokes.” Greg said.

“Did he just say radamned?” Nick asked.

“Isn’t Ra the Egyptian Sun God?” Catherine asked.

“Not only is he the Sun God, but he’s also the Father of the gods.” Greg said, “And yes, I just said radamned. See I’m not a Christian, but I have enough respect not to say put god in front of it.”

“Greg..”

“Look I have to go, so sorry to cut the lecture short.” Greg said, “But you know, I usually don’t like talking to people who put me on speaker phone, without telling me first. Don’t you just HATE people like that. It kind of pisses me off. Then again, that’s just me.”

“Sanders…”

“Nice getting lectured by you guys, late.” Greg said, hanging up the phone.

Greg: 8, Team Nick: 0. He was slaughtering them.

Greg smirked at his thought, before going back to his song writing.

He was interrupted ten minutes later by a knock on the door. He walked to the door, and opened it. He saw Warrick, and Grissom. He groaned.

“Gods? What did I do?” Greg asked himself, with the two standing infront of him.

They gave him a weird look when he said it.

“What do you want? To lecture me more? Sorry I already have a Mom who does that, and a Dad too. So that position is already taken. However the position of me slamming the door in your face is still available, if you want it.” Greg said, smiling cheerfully.

Grissom invited himself in, letting Warrick follow him.

“Or come in without being fucking invited.” Greg snapped, slamming the door.

“What happened to your place?”

“I work better in a crazy environment.” Greg said, “It helps the creative process.”

“By wrecking the place?” Warrick asked.

“I just woke up one day and decided, ‘I want to redecorate.’ Why? You not like it? I do, it adds personality to the room.” Greg said, mentally laughing at the looks on their faces.

“…Aren’t you going to clean it up?” Grissom asked.

“Don’t you people listen? This is my redecorating.” Greg said, “Which means no.”

Grissom glared at him.

“Why are you over here anyways?” Greg asked.

“What’s going on with you?”

“Bad breakup, I just lost a family member, I’m under a SHITLOAD of pressure, and I have people barging into my apartment when I’m trying to work.” Greg said.

“I don’t see any work.” Warrick said, “Just your racket.”

Greg twitched, before going back into his bedroom. He grabbed the notebook, and his cell phone, before he walked back into the living room.

“Notebook for writing songs, see I’m the lead singer of my band. Which means I have to write songs, which also means I don’t need to be bothered. Cell phone for if you guys call me in for work.” Greg said, showing each item.

“But…I gave you the week off.” Grissom said, looking confused.

“It’s a habit. Besides that Jeffrey or Trey might call.” Greg said.

“Who are they?”

“Trey’s the drummer in my band, and Jeffrey’s the guitarist.” Greg said, “If they call it means they can practice, which in turn means that I can introduce them to my new songs.”

At that moment his phone rang. He smirked at the two men before answering it.

“Hey Trey. I was just talking about you…Yeah I got a few new songs…I can probably practice tomorrow.” Greg said, “Yeah I can tell David…oh man that sucks. Tell him that he needs to go check that out.”

Grissom and Warrick shared a look.

“Okay, but he’s your lover, not mine. If he collapses on you in the middle of a fucking session, then you’ll know I’m right.” Greg laughed, “Alright, I’ll call you later. Late.”

He hung up the phone, and looked at their dumbfounded expressions.

“What?”

“N-Nothing. You just sort of ignored us.”

“It’s called answering the phone. It’s not difficult.” Greg said, “Now if you’ll please excuse me I need to get back to my other job.”

“Actually Greg, we were worried about you. We haven’t seen you cry before…”

“So that makes you worry? Everyone cries, I told you over the phone that I’m not a robot.” Greg said, “I do have normal feelings. I just…had an emotional breakdown. It happens to everyone right?”

“Yeah…of course. We just thought we’d ask what’s going on between you and Nick. He won’t tell us anything.”

Greg snorted.

“Of course he won’t, which means I won’t either. You’ll find out if you guys come to my concert, I can promise you that.” Greg said.

“Of course we’ll come. You never told us before you were in a band.”

“You never asked. Sara will give you all the details, she handles that stuff for us. Location and shit. She’s sort of like our manager.” Greg said, “Now can you please leave. I really need to finish a few more songs before tomorrow.”

“Of course. We’ll see you on Monday Greg.” Grissom said, as he showed himself and Warrick out.

Greg made a face at the door before going back into the bedroom. He was being a complete asshole to everyone. Well…except his friends…but if Nick was going to get the team to gang up on him, then it was his friends against Nick’s. He had no problem with that.

No problem at all.

A/N: *- That's Sleep To Dream by Fiona Apple.

***

“One, two, three.” Greg counted, as Jeffrey missed his cue.

“Sorry Greg.” He apologized.

“It’s fine guys. How can you do well when your lead singer can even think straight.” Greg said, making the other four in the room laugh.

“I still can’t believe Griss gave both of us the day off.” David said, motioning to Sara.

“It wouldn’t have to do with him yelling at everyone yesterday.” Sara said, making Greg blush.

“I didn’t yell.”

“According to Catherine, you were ripping them a new one.” Sara said, “Oh how I wish I was there.”

“Did she tell you that when Warrick called, he didn’t tell me I was on speaker phone.” Greg said, as the others made sour faces.

“That’s really fucking rude.’ Trey said, “Like uber fucking rude.”

“I don’t really care.” Greg said, “I gave them all the hints that they need to show that Nick is gay. If they really are CSI’s then they can figure it out.”

“Or be in denial.” Sara added.

“Right. Let’s get back to the song.” Greg said, “We don’t get many days to rehearse, so let’s try something upbeat. Get into a good mood”

David and Jeffrey started an upbeat, fast rhythm. Trey joined in, while Greg tapped the beat with his foot.

Greg opened his mouth to sing, when his phone started ringing. The others groaned as Greg answered his phone.

“What?” Greg snapped into the phone. Greg took the phone away as someone started yelling.

Greg made a sour face at the phone, the others looking at him questioningly. Greg put the phone back to his ear.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know you’re pissed, not my fault really Nick.” Greg said, “Well I don’t care if I gave them clues.”

Greg took the phone away from his ear as more screams came through the phone.

“Look Nick, do you remember my motto?”

“WHAT MOTTO?” They all heard that one. They took a step back, laughing at the whole thing.

Greg was being calm, and Nick was screaming his ass off.

“Well now, isn’t that amazing. You forgot something I told you every other day. Not surprising now that I think about it.” Greg said, smirking as Nick’s screams got louder.

“LISTEN HERE GREGGO!”

“If you aren’t going to talk nicely, then I won’t talk to you at all. You’ve been voted the most annoying geek. Good-bye.” Greg said, shutting the phone.

The room filled with laughter, as Greg shrugged.

“I don’t like people yelling at me. If I wanted that I’d go to my parents.” Greg said, “Alright, let’s try this….” His phone rang again.

Greg’s left eye twitched angrily, when he answered it.

“Listen Nick, if you call me again, I’m going to go over to your house, and rip off your dick, fry it up, and serve it to you in the form of your favorite food, spaghetti.” Greg yelled into the phone.

Sara and David made sour faces at Greg. Jeffrey and Trey continued laughing at the whole thing.

“Mom?! Hi. Uh…I’ve had a bad day.” Greg said, “Yeah Nick broke up with me….I’m going to be fine.”

The others looked shocked.

“Yeah Mom, …it got moved? I already have the week off….What do you mean it’s tomorrow! I’m rehearsing…I told you that before.” Greg said, “You told me Friday mother.”

Greg’s eye twitched again.

“It’s not my fucking fault you got the fucking date wrong a-fucking-gain. Yes I said fuck three times in one sentence, it fucking happens when I’m pissed.” Greg hissed, “I just told you why!”

“Greg, deep soothing breaths.” Sara whispered.

Greg glared at her.

“I just broke up with my boyfriend, I lost my grandfather, AND I have a concert to rehearse for, and I have to work full time as a CSI. Sorry if my life is a little bit to complicated for you.” Greg said sweetly.

A group snort from the peanut gallery.

“No…uh….look Mom, I have to go. I’m rehearsing…yes for my band.” He took his ear away from the phone as they heard screeching.

“Could you be any thicker?” Greg asked quietly, “Alright Mom, I’ll see you tomorrow. I love you too. Bye.”

He hung up the phone, and took a deep breath.

“Alright, ONE LAST TIME! Let’s do an upbeat rhythm, and the next person to call me is getting their ass handed to them.” Greg said, smiling cheerfully.

“I’ve got an idea. How about we do someone else’s song.” Jeffrey said, “We could do Nova Era. It’d put you in a good mood.”

“Can you guys really play it though? That’s the real question.” Greg said, as his friends all smirked at him.

“With the number of times we’ve heard it, you bet your ass.”

“I’d rather not. I can’t hit his high notes.” Greg said.

“Then try it, we all know it will put you in a better mood to sing in.” Trey said.

Greg sighed, and nodded.

“Fine. Only because I don’t want to bite your heads off for stupid stuff.” Greg said.

Jeffrey and David started the beat, letting Trey catch up. Greg tapping the beat again, before he grabbed the microphone.

‘Somehow I know
The things are gonna change
New boundaries on the way
Like never before
Find a meaning to your life
Healing whispers of the angels
Bring the sunrise again

New day shines, fallen angels will arise
Nova Era brings the ashes back to life
All over now, sores in pain and awful lies
Angels will arise
Back to life!

Fresh winds of hope
Has taken us ahead
Forever is a place
You have to keep in mind
No way to limit our goals
You'll find a reason to believe
Facing Nova Era

New day shines, fallen angels will arise
Nova Era brings the ashes back to life
All over now, sores in pain and awful lies
Angels will arise
Back to life!’

Jeffrey and David put in the guitar solo that was in the song. David missed a small rift, but it still sounded really decent.

‘Oh! Come on! Arise!’

‘Find a meaning to your life
No way to limit our goals
Healing whispers of the angels
Bring the sunrise again!

New day shines, fallen angels will arise
Nova Era brings the ashes back to life
All over now, sores in pain and awful lies
Angels lead you through paradise

Nova Era is a passage to your mind
And forever you may find a better time
Nova Era bring the angels back to life... Life!’

Greg started laughing at the last word, the others joined in.

“The next time you guys want to sound like a hair band, try calling Vince Neil.” Greg said, “Although I don’t think he could hit those high notes either.”

“I think Eduardo can.” David said, “But we were right, you’re in a better mood.”

“That’s true. Let’s just hope no one calls so we don’t have to do this again.” Greg said, “Right so let’s do songs for the actual concert.”

“Yes sir.” Three voices chorused.

It took them about three hours to get all the songs down, and even then it was still sketchy. But Sara said they sounded awesome so they called it quits. Greg walked up into his still wrecked apartment with them.

“DAMN GREG! What the fuck happened?” Trey asked, stepping over some glass.

“I’m going to tell you what I told Griss and Warrick, I got up one morning and said, ‘I feel like redecorating.’ Which is the truth.”

“Or everything in here reminds you of Nick.” Trey said, making Greg step back.

“How the fuck did you know that?”

“That’s what Trey did when Nathan broke up with him. He destroyed half his apartment in the time space of ten minutes.” Jeffrey said.

“Wasn’t that just a month relationship? I mean I remember you telling me that you guys didn’t have sex. It just wasn’t there for you.” Greg said.

“That’s why he broke up with me. Then he started sprouting off to his friends that he did.*” Trey said, “Not a pretty thing when Jeffrey found out.”

Jeffrey smirked at the memory.

“Ah yes, I made his life hell at the gym.”

“You almost killed him when he was bench pressing.” Trey said.

“No I didn’t, I asked him if he wanted more weight.” Jeffrey said, “The most he could do was about 250, so I added another hundred pounds. Landed right on his chest, not hard though. That would’ve killed him. I just let it sit there for a few minutes before helping him.”

“Then you threatened him in the locker room.”

“Oh yeah! I almost forgot about that.” Jeffrey said, his smirk widening.

“Is that how you two got together?” Greg asked, “Cause that’s a little romantic. Scary and demented, but romantic.”

“I don’t think it’s romantic in the least sense.” Sara said, “Sorry, almost killing someone isn’t something I find great in a man.”

They all sat down, as Greg got them drinks.

“I guess I better start packing. Good thing it’s only a three hour drive.” Greg sighed, plopping down.

“About that Greg, maybe I could ask Johnny if I can take another day off.” Trey said, “We could probably get Jason to go with you…you need some kind of emotional support there.”

Greg laughed quietly.

“I think I have some vacation time Greg. I can come probably.” Sara said, smiling at him.

“You always have vacation time. You work all the time.” Greg said, “Look you guys can do that if you want to. Only if you want to. It’s going to be depressing enough being around my parents and going to a funeral. I don’t think it’d be your idea of a good time.”

“If we can hang around you, I think it would be a good time…under the circumstances.” Sara said.

Greg shrugged.

“I’ll call Griss.” Sara said, dialing it.

“I’ll can call Jason.” Trey said, “I don’t think it’s necessary though if Sara’s going.”

“Yeah if Sara’s going it isn’t.” Greg told him.

“Grissom said I could.” Sara said, smiling.

“I think it might be because of the yelling yesterday.” David said, “I heard the whole thing. Jacqui, Mia, and me couldn’t stop laughing. They looked so shocked when you started yelling.”

“As they should. No one treats our Greg like shit and then gets away with it.” Trey said, throwing an arm around Greg.

Greg laughed at him, pushing his arm off.

“Yeah, he could only bottle so much up before it completely shatters.” Jeffrey said, “So what are you going to wear to the funeral?”


“Since my parents are going to be there, I’m thinking Sara and I will dress up like I did for work yesterday.”

“Just because of your parents?” David asked.

“His parents are slightly insane.”

“Insane! They’re freaks, with a hint of borderline possession in them.”

“Possession?”

“Yeah! I sometimes think they have some sort of spirit in them. When I told them I was Bi, they spent a year studying me. It really pissed me off, because it’s like with Grissom. I was an experiment, not their son.” Greg said, “It was like they were actually possessed.”

“Fuck that!” Jeffrey said, “Fuck that a lot. I couldn’t deal with that.”

“Yeah. So they hate it when I over dramatize things.” Greg said, “So going in the gothic look, will totally piss them off enough not to talk to me. I did it at my aunt’s wedding. My aunt loved it, said I looked really cute. Parents gave it two thumbs down, and avoided me for most of the night.”

“Half the night? What happened to the other half?” Sara asked.

“Easy, they tried talking to me at every point, and I just left the reception.” Greg said, “Simple thing to do really. Take these things connected to my body and walk away.”

The others rolled their eyes.

“Um..Greg I have nothing to wear.” Sara said, “I’ve got black skirts and shirts, yes..but nothing…erm…gothic.”

Trey and Jeffrey smirked.

“We know where you can get something. What size are you?” Trey asked.

“Um…I’m not sure.” Sara said, as Trey rolled his eyes.

“Get me a tape measure, and some heels.” Trey said, as Greg got up to get the things.

The heels were from one of his ex-girlfriends, but they were Sara’s size. He handed the things over to Trey.

“Alright, put on the heels.” Trey said, as Sara did as he asked.

“Why?”

“So we can see how long the dress needs to be.”

“Dress? I don’t do dresses.” Sara said.

“You will tomorrow.” Jeffrey said, writing down the measurements of Sara.

“Yep, we definitely have the dress for you.” Trey told her.

“I’ll go get it.” Jeffrey said, leaving.

“Can you at least tell me what it looks like?” Sara asked.

Trey just smirked.

“Nope. It’s a surprise.” He said.

“Then tell me. I don’t need my mom thinking I have a girlfriend. I love you Sara, I really do, but no.” Greg said.

“Fine. A corset styled dress.” Trey said, “You aren’t getting the colors though, I have to keep some of it a surprise.”

The others laughed, waiting for the dress to come over.

“Oh..before we go…we have to stop by work.” Sara said, “Griss wants to talk to us.”

“You guys should go in your outfits.” David said, “Grissom would totally give Sara the look over.”

Sara blushed.

“We don’t even know if it will look good on me or not.” Sara said.

“I like this new plan.” Greg said, “We go into work in our outfits, and let Grissom see it.”

Sara smirked.

“And hopefully along the way he’ll realize he likes me, and ask me out.” Sara said.

Oh the plans that were going to be made.

***

While they were waiting Greg was leaning back into the couch, his tongue out as he made the moan from The Grudge. The others were waiting for it to stop. He’d been going for two minutes without breathing, which in itself was an achievement. He finally stopped, taking in a big breath.

“Damn Greg.” Sara said, “That was only a little annoying.”

“That was awesome. I can barely do it for a minute.” David said, making Trey laugh.

“Well you smoked as a teen, which does some damage to your lungs.” Trey said.

Greg snorted, letting David do his weird talent.

“It’s not exactly weird, but it is talent.” David said, grabbing four apples. He started to juggle them high in the air.

They all clapped and whistled.

“I tried to do that when I was a kid, I ended up getting hit in the head.” Greg said, as Sara laughed.

“Try doing that with ten scarves and then you’ve got me juggling.” Sara said, as David passed an apple to them.

“Your turn Sara.” Trey said.

“I’m with David for mine, it’s not really weird, but it is talent.”

Sara sighed before getting up. She took off the heels, and then got on her tiptoes. She did a plié, before shooting back up onto her tiptoes on one foot, she did a jeté. She did a pirouette, before she stopped and blushed.

Greg whistled before laughing.

“Who would’ve thought our Sara was a little ballerina.” Greg said, as Sara hit him in the arm.

“Fuck you. It was better than your stupid talent.”

“You try doing it.” Greg said, making her blush redder.

Trey stood up and smirked.

“What’s yours Trey?” Greg asked, as the other laughed uneasily.

Trey went to one side of the room, before doing two back flips, ending in the splits. He tugged his shirt up, pulling himself up with it. He shrugged and sat down, leaving the others shocked.

“Show off.” Sara said.

“Says the girl who used to wear a tutu.” Trey said, making the other two men laugh.

“You’re just jealous because I can stand on my tiptoes longer than you.” Sara said, as Trey scoffed.

“Wanna bet?” Trey said.

“What do I get if I win?” Sara asked.

“I’ll pay you $50.”

“If I lose?”

“You pay me $50.” Trey said.

Sara smirked, and held out her hand. Trey shook it and then pulled her up.

“Greg and David are the judges.” Trey said, as Greg snorted.

“Go.” David said, as the two went on their toes.

Trey had a look of extreme discomfort on his face, while Sara looked relaxed. Both refusing to drop down, Trey may have been uncomfortable, but he didn’t want to lose.

Sara was still as calm as a cucumber. She’d been trained to be on her toes, so she was used to it. Ten minutes later, Trey dropped down.

“Damn, that hurt.” He said, sitting on the ground.

“Don’t fuck with girls who used to wear tutu’s.” Sara said, “You’ll lose.”

The door opened back up as Jeffrey walked in. The dress was covered by a thin layer of colored plastic, which hid it. Sara glanced at the plastic, then at Greg.

“You owe me so much Greg.” Sara said, as Jeffrey took off the plastic.

“We got it for my sister, but she hates these types of dresses.” Jeffrey said, as Sara’s mouth dropped.

She didn’t know why. The dress had off shoulder, long belled out sleeves, the corset part looked like it’d be a bitch to get into, but she’d make due. She knew it was going to hug her upper torso. It flowed out a little at the hips, not the big flow that made it a Victorian dress. The cords of the corset were red, the rest was black. Her mouth was open, she knew it was.

“Guys this is a BIT much for a funeral. I’m going to look like a hotter version of Elvira.” Sara said, making Greg laugh.

“That’s the look we’re going for.” Greg said, “Ya’ll need to go so Sara and I can get some sleep. We’ll probably go to the lab around…nine-ish.”

With that their friend’s left, making the other two, smirk.

“My dear Sara, you’re going to give Grissom a heart attack tomorrow.” Greg said, “Especially when I’m done with your hair.”

Sara laughed at him.

“Isn’t it silly to wear the outfits before though?” Sara asked.

“No, because by the time we get there we’ll have an hour to get to the cemetery.” Greg said, as Sara’s mouth dropped.

“Damn.” Sara said.

“You can take the bed if you want. I don’t care.” Greg said, as Sara smiled.

“Thanks Greg.” She said, going into the room. She brought out a pillow and a blanket, laying it out.

Greg shrugged, before laying on the couch. Sleep instantly claiming him when his head hit the pillow.

“GREG! Come on. We have an hour and a half to get ready.” Sara said, “Plus you need to shower.”

Greg shot up, and ran towards the bathroom.

“Damn…it usually takes ten minutes to get him up.” Sara said to herself, as she went into Greg’s bedroom.

She got into the dress, but needed Greg’s help to secure it. Greg walked out of the bathroom naked, and went into his room. Sara had seen him naked before, so he had nothing to hide.

“Greg, can you help me?” Sara asked.

“Let me get on my outfit real fast.” Greg said, putting on his suit. The shirt was red, so he’d match Sara. He pulled out a black top hat, and laid it on the dresser. He went over to Sara and laced up the corset part.

“This might hurt a little, I’m going to do it uber tight, but when we get to the parking lot, I’ll loosen it up.” Greg promised.

“That’s fine.” Sara said, as Greg put a knee to her back and pulled it. Sara gasped, a hand going to her chest.

Greg tied it, and smiled at her.

“Damn Sara.” Greg said, “You look really hot.”

“Back off Greg, you’re trying to get Nick back.” Sara said, as Greg laughed.

“In more ways than one.” Greg said, as he spiked up his hair.

“Why are you spiking it when a hat is going to be over it?”

“Because when it comes off, I won’t have hat hair.” Greg said, “Oh and I have a cane.”

“You’re really overdoing this.”

“I’m having fun with it.” Greg said, looking at her hair.

“Your hair is so short.”

“It’s shoulder length!”

“Half up-half down would probably be best.” Greg said, brushing it.

“Do you think your Mom will think I’m your girlfriend?”

“I told her I was through with girls.” Greg said, “So hopefully not.”

Sara laughed, as Greg started working on her hair. He put a clip in her hair tightly. He handed her the gloves that came with the dress, which she put on.

Greg put on some heavy eyeliner, and smirked.

“Want sticks?” Greg asked Sara, who tilted her head.

“Want what?” Sara asked.

“Sticks. It’s a line from where the eyeliner ends.” Greg said.

Sara nodded, as Greg set to work.

“Your skin doesn’t stretch so much, that’s a plus.” Greg said, finishing it up.

Sara put on her own mascara and dark lipstick. She took a look in the mirror and her eyes widened.

“Oh yeah, I’m good.” Greg said, stroking his own ego.

“I hardly recognize myself.” Sara said, as Greg pulled on the jacket.

It was a penguin suit, as David called it. He put on the top hat, and smirked at Sara.

“Shall we?” Greg asked, holding out his arm.

Sara laughed.

“I’ve got to lace up my boots. Duh.” Sara said, as Greg helped her.

She got frustrated with the lacing halfway through, so Greg had to take over.

“Come on. You look great.” Greg said, as they walked out of the apartment.

“I feel really naked.” Sara said, as Greg laughed.

“You look gorgeous. Which is coming from a bi friend.” Greg said, making Sara laugh.

“Why’d I agree to this?”

“I need someone comforting me, even though I don’t need it.” Greg said, getting into the Tahoe. He put on the air conditioner so the makeup wouldn’t sweat off.

“No, going to work in the outfits.” Sara told her, as Greg pulled out.

“We wouldn’t have time upon getting there.” Greg told her.

The drive there was loud. Sara was making fun of Greg, saying he looked like Brendon from Panic! At the Disco. Greg laughed when they pulled into the parking lot.

“You ready?”

“No.” Sara said.

“It’s just Grissom. It’s not like we’re seeing the team.” Greg said.

“You’re right. I think that’s what I was scared of.” Sara said, as they got out.

Greg walked to Sara’s side, opening her door. She stepped out, and took a deep breath.

They walked into the lab, getting a big stare from Judy. Greg had his cane in his left hand, and his other arm was locked with Sara’s.

“Um…we aren’t having a party.” Judy said.

“Judy, it’s us. Sara and Greg. Where’s Grissom?” Sara asked.

“Really? Sara! You look great…why are you guys dressed up like the circus?” Judy asked.

“I have a funeral to go to.” Greg said, “So where’s Grissom?”

“In the break room. He’s giving out assignments.” Judy said.

Sara turned to walk out, but Greg’s arm kept her with him.

“Thanks.” Greg said, as he pulled Sara with him.

“I can’t go in there infront of everyone like this.” Sara said, as David stopped them.

“Damn Sara! If I wasn’t taken, I’d ask you out.” David said, as Sara blushed.

“Thanks for the compliment David. Excuse us, we’re kinda in a hurry.” Sara said, as David let them by.

“Like the outfit Greggo!” David called after them.

“Calm down Sara, it’s going to be fine.” Greg said, as they approached the break room.

He put his head down, before opening the door. He unlinked arms with Sara, who stepped in first.

Grissom stopped talking when the team looked behind him. Grissom turned, and his mouth dropped.

“I’m sorry…you aren’t allowed to be in here.” Grissom said, as Sara laughed.

Greg took his free hand, putting his index and middle ontop of the brim of the hat, and his thumb on the bottom. He looked up, smirking at Grissom. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Nick's mouth drop wide open.

“You rang Grissom.” Greg said, as Catherine’s started laughing.

“I thought you were going to a funeral?”

“Ah yes, we’re still going. No worries about that, but along the way we’re going to piss off my parents. Hence why I needed Sara to help me.”

“S-Sara?” Grissom asked, looking at the girl.

“She doesn’t look that different.” Greg said, “Don’t worry, we aren’t together or anything. She’s just going with me for emotional support…j-just…in case.”

The others nodded their head in understanding, as Nick looked everywhere except for Greg.

“Right…excuse us guys.” Grissom said, pulling the two out of the room.

“So what’d you need us for Griss?” Sara asked.

“Well I was going to ask you guys when the concert was going to be.” Grissom said, “Oh and another thing, Sara you look stunning.”

Sara’s eyes widened, as a huge blush crossed her face.

“The concert is in a week, at the park over on Monrovia.” Greg said, “7 o’clock.”

Grissom nodded.

“We’ll be there then. I’ll see you guys on Monday.” Grissom said, going back in.

“5…4…3…2…1.” Greg counted down, before Sara started squealing.

Greg just walked to the car, letting Sara follow him. He tipped his hat to Ecklie, while Sara curtseyed for him.

“Good day, evil jerk.” Sara said, as they walked out.

Ecklie had a confused look on his face.

“Who were they?”

“Singing telegram people for Grissom.” Judy lied.

Ecklie nodded, before continuing to walk down the hall.

***

Next part of Blue.